The Core Filipino Ingredients You Need to Know

1. COCONUT VINEGAR

Varieties, such as tuba, coconut sap, sugar cane and pinakurat (spiced vinegar), are featured in dishes like kinilaw and adobo, as well as marinades and pickles.

2. SAMPALOC

Also known as tamarind, this tart and tangy fruit is used primarily in sinigang, a sour-savory stew, and candies. It also is sold as a paste to add to marinades.

3. PANCIT

A general term for noodles derived from the Chinese word that means “convenient.”

4. BANANA KETCHUP

Made of bananas, sugar, vinegar and spices, this ingredient is found in Filipino sweet spaghetti and barbecue sauce.

5. BAGOONG

A funky-flavored umami bomb of fish or shrimp paste, bagoong works as a condiment, a topping for rice or in salad dressing. The product varies by region.

6. DRIED FISH

Dried fish such as daing are used to flavor rice, sauces and other dishes.